Penguins vs. Lightning
Their ability to keep the Red Wings from getting the puck deep in the first period was key. Even in giving up 10 shots in the first period to Detroit most of the Wings shots were easily handled. As we stated in our write-up, what makes the Lightning special is their confidence to bring their defensemen up into the offensive zone. In today's NHL you can't have a D-Man who is only focused on defense. Most offensively talented teams get two way play from the defensive position.

Both special teams units came alive vs. Detroit and became the difference as the Lightning scored two power play while allowing none. Critical considering how tight the Wings play five on five. Tampa has now scored a power play goal in four straight games, five total in that stretch. Their power play is efficient overall but at home they are a machine with the extra attacker, scoring on 25% of their chances, third in the league.

We learned Thursday afternoon that the Penguins will travel to Florida without the services of Egveni Malkin and Eric Fehr, according to Head Coach, Mike Sullivan. Fehr suffered a lower body injury, Tuesday against Ottawa and Malkin will not play, also with a lower body injury. A huge hit considering Malkin is among the leaders in goals and points (23/49). Nick Bonino (hand) will also be out for Pittsburgh. With that said the Penguins now have to figure out who is going to play at center other than Sidney Crosby and Matt Cullen. They may bring up Kevin Porter from the fourth line because he brings experience. With Fehr out they also must make some choices on the penalty kill.

If Thursday's practice was any indication, Cullen was at center with Phil Kessel and Carl Hagelin while pairing Sergei Plotnikov with Tom Kuhnhackl and Bryan Rust. Porter was matched up with Conor Sheary and Scott Wilson.

To not be at 100% offensively at this point could be devastating especially if Marc-Andre Fleury continues his poor play. Fleury has not allowed nine goals over his last three games.

Pittsburgh finds themselves in a 1-4 road slump which isn't a good formula against Tampa who are 52-24 over the their last 76 home dates and 7-1 in their last eight after a win. This isn't a one season wonder either. Remember, last year they were 32-8-1 on home ice, the most in franchise history. Tampa started slowly on home ice this season going 2-3, struggling at Amalie until the turn of the calendar. Since, Tampa had been unbeatable as they share the longest current win streak, at home, with Chicago. Tampa plays five of their next seven at home which could prove to be critical in their playoff seeding.

We know the Penguins have had the Lightning's number so expect the bettors to jump on that plus money which will give us more value with Tampa. The NHL odds board show the Lightning as the favorites at -140. Take Tampa Bay for your NHL picks.